For food and agriculture

Selective (conventional) breeding of plants and animals changes the genetic make-up of the organisms. With the use of biotechnology and gene technology, these changes can be more specific.

More changes are also possible, because genes can now be moved between animals, plants and microorganisms, which is not possible using conventional breeding methods.

Plant geneticists are trying to develop new plants such as:

  • frost-tolerant sugarcane
  • salt and drought tolerant plants
  • salad vegetables that do not ‘brown’
  • fruits and vegetables with extra vitamins
  • sweeter peas
  • slow-ripening pineapples and tomatoes
  • long-lasting flowers
  • blue roses.

Animal geneticists are using biotechnology to:

  • produce blowfly-resistant sheep
  • produce cattle that can withstand greater temperature and water stresses
  • increase wool production
  • reduce diseases in aquaculture
  • improve defences against stock animal disease
  • improve pig welfare
  • protect cattle against tick-borne diseases.

Read more in the Food and Agriculture chapter.